Out of My Comfort Zone at MIBF 2025

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Yey! I did it again this year. I participated in MIBF 2025 as a writer and a reader.

For those who are unfamiliar with MIBF, it stands for Manila International Book Fair and is an annual event that many Filipino readers and writers eagerly anticipate. As a reader and writer, I have always been excited to participate in this event, especially if I have the budget (haha).

And this year has been, so far, my best experience of MIBF. And good news for those who know me: I stepped out of my comfort zone, or at least I tried, even if only for an hour, and I want to praise God for that!

With the help of PaperKat Books and Ms. Kath, I was able to book an hour of meet-the-writer and a book signing event during the MIBF 2025.

Initially, I only planned to consign my latest book, The Restless Mind, and hope for the best of its sales. I am scared to be on the frontline of the meet-the-writer and a book signing event. But then, there was this desire to try the book signing activity. I took the risk. I thought I had nothing to lose, and it was not like I was going to do something bad or illegal.

"I am just gonna put myself out there, and be a little vulnerable in the eyes of spectators." I thought to myself.

So, yes, I did! I had the book signing and meet-the-writer activity with PaperKat Books. I am really grateful for the opportunity and the experience, and I am so glad I got to experience MIBF 2025 as a writer and a reader.

Special shout-out to the readers who took a chance on my book, The Restless Mind, during my book signing: Ram, Grace, Zu, LJ, and Thine!💙 If you bought my book at MIBF 2025, and I was not able to sign it for you, I hope I get to see you at other events. SLMT 💙

I am looking forward to experiencing more of this event.

I am joyful that I did this. It was beyond my comfort zone, but God did it again! He helped me get through 🙏🙌

I'm Gonna Be At MIBF 2025 Again

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

I have good news for you all. I will be participating Manila International Book Fair this year, 2025. I am excited to be doing this again after quite a while. I hope you are excited too.

The Restless Mind, my latest book, is participating this year. The book event will run from September 10-14, 2025, from Wednesday to Sunday.

Ms. Kath Eustaquio-Derla and PaperKat Books helped me to make this opportunity possible.

I also have a Meet the author schedule at Booth #2-122, 2nd Floor Function Hall, SMX Convention Center Manila. So if you want to meet me or get your copies signed, please feel free to drop by. Other freebies are waiting for you. I hope I get to see you guys and gals!

To Kill or Not To Kill A Mockingbird, What Would It Be?

Friday, August 22, 2025

The latest book that I read is To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I think it is the first time I have read a classic intentionally. I thought reading a classic would be boring, but I was totally wrong. To Kill A Mockingbird proved me wrong.

It is also my first time having a reading buddy with the same book. It was a fun journey as we shared our thoughts and feelings through a group chat.

This book brought hope to me, and I am sure to other readers. Though the resolution of the main conflict in the story is not favorable, I can say that the book teaches hope. That injustice does not have to be a dead end. The story setting is in 1930, more than a century ago, and the book screams RACISM as the main topic. It recounts a somber aspect of American history.

In the present, everything is better; not perfect, but better. The human race still has some improvement to make, and I hope that we are getting closer to it, rather than moving further away.

The book has a slow pace of telling, and that is what I like about it. I enjoyed how the writer built up the story by mentioning the neighbors, the town, and the point of view of the narrator in the form of a child. There is always hope; change might take a while, but it will definitely happen as long as we strive for good and the better.

So if you are looking for a book that will give you a glimpse of hope in humanity, then this book can be a good choice.

🚌 Travel Blog Ep. 5: From Tamsui to Yehliu: A Scenic Bus Journey Along Taiwan’s North Coast (Day 2 - Part 1)

Sunday, August 17, 2025

🌅 Introduction

There’s something magical about letting the road guide you along Taiwan’s rugged north coast. The bus ride from Tamsui to Yehliu Geopark isn’t just a transfer — it’s a moving postcard, with every curve revealing another slice of coastal beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this route offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and seaside charm.

🗺️ The Route at a Glance

The 716 Crown Northern Coast Shuttle links MRT Tamsui Station to Yehliu Geopark, tracing Provincial Highway 2. Along the way, you’ll pass:

Qianshui Bay – A tranquil beach perfect for a morning stroll.
Baisha Bay – Known for its soft white sand and calm waters.
Fugui Cape Lighthouse – Taiwan’s northernmost point, with panoramic ocean views.
Shimen Arch – A striking natural rock formation shaped by the sea.
Juming Museum – An open-air art space showcasing the works of sculptor Ju Ming.
Jinshan Old Street – A foodie’s haven with traditional snacks and hot spring culture.

📸 Why This Ride is Special

Ever-changing scenery — From fishing villages to dramatic cliffs, the view never gets old.
Cultural gems — The route blends natural wonders with art, history, and local life.
Budget-friendly adventure — A one-way trip costs around NT$90, or grab a Taipei Fun Pass for unlimited rides.

🏞️ Yehliu Geopark: The Grand Finale

Your journey ends at Yehliu Geopark, famous for its otherworldly rock formations like the Queen’s Head, Fairy Shoe, and Sea Candles. The contrast of golden rock against the deep blue sea is a photographer’s dream.

💡 Travel Tips

Best time to go: Clear days between October and April for crisp views.
Seating hack: Sit on the right side of the bus for the best coastal panoramas.
Pack light: Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera — you’ll be hopping off often.

✨ Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a bus ride — it’s a curated journey through Taiwan’s north coast, where every stop tells a story. If you’re looking to slow down, soak in the scenery, and discover hidden treasures, the Tamsui-to-Yehliu route is your ticket.